The City’s current Local Waterfront Revitalization Plan was certified in 1986, making Ogdensburg the first community in New York State with an approved LWRP. The City made updates to the LWRP in 1999 and began working on updates again in 2012 (more information will be available soon), as an LWRP can only be effective if it promotes policies and projects that reflect current conditions, amendments are periodically required to update the plan so that it continues to effectively promote public waterfront access, economic activity, and resource production. With the assistance of a $35,000 Environmental Protection Fund Grant from the New York State Department of State, the City is currently working to complete another LWRP Update (link not available at this time).

Preparation of a LWRP

An LWRP follows a step-by-step process by which a community can advance from a vision to implementation. These steps include:

These steps are appropriate whether the community is large or small, whether the concern is with one issue in one area or with a wide range of issues for a community’s entire waterfront, or whether the primary goal is waterfront redevelopment or natural resource protection.

Objectives of an LWRP

Redevelop deteriorated waterfronts

Give priority to water-dependent uses

Provide the public waterfront access for recreation

Protect natural resources and habitats

Manage development to improve water quality

Benefits of an LWRP

Increase a community’s ability to attract appropriate development.

Increases a community’s chances to obtain public and private funding for projects.

Establishes long-term partnerships between City Hall and the Community.

Once approved by the Secretary of State, permitting, funding, and actions by federal and state agencies must be consistent with the LWRP.